·4 min read
MVP Authentication Options
Authentication is one of the first decisions you make. Here are your options and when to use them.
Auth Method Comparison
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Email/Password | Familiar, works everywhere | Password management burden |
| Magic Link | No passwords, secure | Depends on email delivery |
| Google OAuth | One-click, trusted | Not everyone has Google |
| GitHub OAuth | Great for developers | Niche audience only |
| Phone/SMS | High security | Costly, phone required |
MVP Recommendations
- •B2B SaaS: Google OAuth + Email/Password
- •Developer tools: GitHub OAuth
- •Consumer apps: Social logins + Email
- •Quick validation: Magic links only
Auth Services to Use
- •Clerk: Best DX, generous free tier
- •Supabase Auth: Free, works with Supabase
- •Auth0: Enterprise-ready, complex
- •NextAuth: Free, self-hosted
- •Firebase Auth: Google ecosystem
What to Skip for MVP
- •Two-factor authentication (add later)
- •Multiple social providers (pick 1-2)
- •Enterprise SSO (not until you sell to enterprises)
- •Custom auth flows (use a service)
Security Essentials
- •Use a managed auth service
- •HTTPS everywhere
- •Secure password reset flow
- •Rate limiting on login attempts
Never build auth from scratch. The security risks are not worth it. Use Clerk or Supabase Auth and move on.